Weight Loss - Does Body Image Play a Role in Weight Loss?

The relationship between body image and body weight has been discussed on different occasions but perhaps not enough since it is not something most people consider.

Whether we like it or not, some of our self-esteem is influenced by our body weight. In part, this is due to modern society and the pressure it brings to be trim, taut and terrific. Even if this external factor is a primary one, we should be aware of possible internal forces and motivations. 

After all, is there anyone who genuinely wants to be overweight? Is there anyone who is overweight who would not choose to become lean at the snap of a finger if it were possible? This idea suggests with external factors aside; there have to be internal factors as well even if they are influenced by the standards of modern society.

Body image is the way we see ourselves in front of a mirror. It is our picture of our appearance. And it is not only limited to our weight, as it considers other elements including our unique characteristics as well.

For the purpose of this discussion, let's focus on the role of body image in weight loss. It is important to stress the fact body image is subjective. In other words, it is based on an individual's perspective along with personal feelings and opinions. So while you may see yourself one way, others may see you differently.

As you can likely imagine, this can work for better or worse...

• you may see yourself as leaner than you are. Even if you know you have some weight you ought to lose, you may not realize the extent of your adiposity. This is obviously a problematic situation for those who are more overweight than they believe. It is often, in this case, health problems like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease develop, catching individuals by surprise.
• alternatively, the inverse also occurs. If you have been overweight for a long time and you succeed at returning to a healthy weight, you may still see yourself as being overweight - even if the scale clearly suggests otherwise. While your health is undeniably in a better position, your body image may feel unchanged. You may still feel like the unhealthy and unfit person you were.

In this sense, there is a delay in changing your self-image: it is often a delay of six months to a year. So in other words, you may still feel overweight when you are not any longer. It also means you may not recognize you are obese, despite knowing you are at least a little overweight.

Ultimately, body image has an impact on your feelings. Be aware this can work against you - but only if you are caught unawares.

That said, it should not demotivate you if your plan is to become healthy and feel better for the long-term.

Although managing your disease can be very challenging, Type 2 diabetes is not a condition you must just live with. You can make simple changes to your daily routine and lower both your weight and your blood sugar levels. Hang in there, the longer you do it, the easier it gets.